anion

noun

an·​ion ˈa-ˌnī-ən How to pronounce anion (audio)
: the ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the anode
broadly : a negatively charged ion

Examples of anion in a Sentence

Recent Examples on the Web
Examples are automatically compiled from online sources to show current usage. Read More Opinions expressed in the examples do not represent those of Merriam-Webster or its editors. Send us feedback.
This avoids a problem with direct conversion of CO2 to acetate: CO2 is an acidic gas, while acetate—as an anion—is basic. Tom Hawking, Popular Science, 23 Oct. 2024 These are all meant to conduct metals, isotopic elemental, and anion analyses while determining physical and chemical properties. Tim Newcomb, Popular Mechanics, 10 Dec. 2019 The former converts to H2, and the latter travels through the membrane, known as an anion exchange membrane (AEM). Robert F. Service, Science | AAAS, 10 Mar. 2020 Being an anion, meanwhile, means that the sulfidic molecules have negative charges. David Grossman, Popular Mechanics, 9 Apr. 2018 These carbon chain anions are akin to Legos that can be pieced together into larger molecules, reports Meghan Bartels for Mic. Ben Panko, Smithsonian, 31 July 2017 This molecule, called a carbon chain anion, appears to be a catalyst for complicated chemical reactions, said lead author Ravi Desai. OrlandoSentinel.com, 9 Aug. 2017 These carbon chain anions are akin to Legos that can be pieced together into larger molecules, reports Meghan Bartels for Mic. Ben Panko, Smithsonian, 28 July 2017

Word History

Etymology

Greek, neuter of aniōn, present participle of anienai to go up, from ana- + ienai to go — more at issue entry 1

First Known Use

1834, in the meaning defined above

Time Traveler
The first known use of anion was in 1834

Dictionary Entries Near anion

Cite this Entry

“Anion.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary, Merriam-Webster, https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/anion. Accessed 23 Nov. 2024.

Kids Definition

anion

noun
an·​ion ˈan-ˌī-ən How to pronounce anion (audio)
: a negatively charged ion

Medical Definition

anion

noun
an·​ion ˈan-ˌī-ən How to pronounce anion (audio)
: the ion in an electrolyzed solution that migrates to the anode
broadly : a negatively charged ion
Last Updated: - Updated example sentences
Love words? Need even more definitions?

Subscribe to America's largest dictionary and get thousands more definitions and advanced search—ad free!